Instructions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Crust:
In a medium bowl, combine the graham cracker crumbs, granulated sugar, and melted butter. Mix until the crumbs are evenly coated.
Press the mixture firmly into the bottom and up the sides of a 9-inch pie dish.
Bake the crust in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Let it cool while you prepare the filling.
Prepare the Filling:
In a large bowl, whisk together the sweetened condensed milk, egg yolks, key lime juice, and lime zest until well combined.
Pour the filling into the cooled crust.
Bake the Pie:
Bake the pie in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the filling is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until fully chilled.
Prepare the Whipped Cream:
In a large bowl, whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form.
Spread or pipe the whipped cream over the chilled pie.
Garnish and Serve:
Garnish the pie with fresh cherries and chopped nuts if desired.
Slice and serve chilled.
Enjoy your homemade key lime pie with a refreshing citrus flavor and creamy texture!
